Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for cold weather or a casual family dinner. This easy-to-make stew combines savory beef with wholesome vegetables, making it a favorite for gatherings and weeknight meals. With its rich flavors and tender textures, this stew stands out as a satisfying option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew makes great leftovers, perfect for lunches throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours of cooking.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is packed with delicious flavors from fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Meat & Sausage

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 lb package kielbasa sausage (sliced)

Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced)

Canned Goods

• 30 oz cans pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14 oz can Rotel (undrained)

Frozen Ingredients

• 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, and corn)

Seasoning & Broth

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Garnish

• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley

How to Make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Add the onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the beef and onion mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Then, add in all remaining ingredients—pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, ground black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

Cover with a lid. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until all vegetables are soft and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew warm!

How to Serve Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of a warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the stew.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with toasted garlic bread for a flavorful addition.

Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice – Spoon the stew over fluffy white rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, serve it over brown rice, which adds a nutty flavor.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top while serving for an extra creamy texture.
• Cotija Cheese – Crumbled cotija cheese adds a tangy note that complements the flavors well.

With Avocado Slices

• Fresh Avocado – Add slices of ripe avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Guacamole – A dollop of guacamole can elevate the dish with its rich flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

To ensure your Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed; you may want more salt or spices.
• Layer Ingredients Carefully – Start with meat at the bottom of the slow cooker, then add veggies and liquids on top for even cooking.
• Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully; don’t rush it if you have time.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last – Stir in fresh herbs like parsley just before serving to retain their vibrant flavor and color.
• Store Leftovers Properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its hearty flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up the stew’s juices.
2. Garden Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens adds a refreshing crunch and balances the rich stew.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables can enhance your meal with added nutrition and taste.
5. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base underneath the stew for extra comfort.
6. Potato Chips – Crunchy potato chips can serve as a fun snack on the side or garnish for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor. Always brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling your crockpot too full can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to leave space for steam and heat to circulate.
• Not seasoning properly: A lack of seasoning can make your stew bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect taste. Choose fresh vegetables and good-quality broth for a better stew.
• Cooking for incorrect times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin the texture of your stew. Follow recommended cooking times closely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Best used within 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer stew to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Pour stew into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew that may help you with your cooking experience.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions.

How spicy is Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

The spice level largely depends on the type of diced tomatoes and Rotel used. For less heat, choose mild versions of these products.

Can I add more vegetables to my Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.

How do I thicken my Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a deliciously hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

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Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef and a medley of wholesome vegetables, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. With rich flavors and tender textures, this stew is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that can be customized based on your pantry staples. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work—dinner will be ready when you are! Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 30 oz pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 cups beef broth

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, beef broth, and seasonings.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Cover the slow cooker with a lid.
4. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until vegetables are tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: High (3 hours) / Low (6 hours)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg